UPS trims 48,000 jobs amid soft freight demand and automation drive

United Parcel Service said it has reduced 48,000 positions this year, continuing its restructuring aimed at cost control and automation. The cuts, spanning warehouse and support roles, reflect falling parcel volumes and the end of pandemic-driven logistics expansion. UPS expects annual cost savings of roughly $1.2 billion and plans further AI-enabled network optimisation in 2026. The company emphasised that no customer service disruptions are expected. Analysts interpret the move as part of a sector-wide reset in the global shipping industry.